Saudi Arabia has concluded its two-year chairmanship of the UN Tourism Executive Council at the 122nd session held in Cartagena, Colombia, from November 13 to 15, 2024. This pivotal event underscored Saudi Arabia’s leadership in steering the global tourism sector toward sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth. Under its guidance, transformative initiatives have set the foundation for a more resilient and equitable global tourism landscape.

Key Achievements Under Saudi Arabia’s Chairmanship

During its tenure, Saudi Arabia prioritized four critical pillars: investments, education, youth empowerment, and sustainability. These initiatives have significantly influenced the global tourism agenda, fostering economic growth and societal progress.

Tourism’s global economic impact is forecasted to reach 10% of global GDP in 2024, equating to an annual spend of $11 trillion. This growth is fueled by enhanced air connectivity, post-pandemic demand, and the rise of the middle-class tourist base in emerging markets.

Saudi Arabia’s leadership has played a critical role in these trends by:

  • Encouraging strategic investments in infrastructure and tourism development.
  • Establishing education and training programs tailored to empower youth and women.
  • Promoting sustainable tourism practices that align with global environmental goals.

A Call for Continued Innovation

His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Executive Council of UN Tourism, opened the session with a call to action for the incoming chair. “This gathering has reaffirmed our shared vision for the ongoing prosperity of global tourism. Innovative models, strategic investments, and global collaborations are vital to sustaining this momentum,” Al-Khateeb emphasized.

Building International Partnerships

A significant highlight of the session was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Saudi Arabia and Zambia. Signed by His Excellency Al-Khateeb and Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Rhodine Sikumba, the agreement covers:

  • Developing human capital through training and expertise sharing.
  • Strengthening sustainable tourism planning and event organization.
  • Coordinating positions in international tourism forums.

This MoU symbolizes Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering global partnerships and knowledge exchange within the tourism sector.

Regional and Thematic Expansion

Under Saudi Arabia’s leadership, the UN Tourism Executive Council achieved significant regional and thematic milestones:

  • Regional Offices Established:
    • The Regional Office for the Americas in Brazil.
    • The Regional Office for Africa in Morocco.
  • Thematic Offices Introduced:
    • The Tourism Law Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean in Uruguay.
    • The Thematic Office on Tourism on the Silk Road in Uzbekistan.

These expansions underscore the council’s commitment to enhancing global tourism governance and inclusivity.

Driving Economic and Societal Impact

Tourism remains a cornerstone of global economic and societal development. With 350 million jobs supported worldwide, the sector provides pathways to economic mobility for youth, women, and underserved communities. By the end of 2024, 1.5 billion international tourist arrivals are expected, further driving cultural exchange and understanding among nations.

Saudi Arabia’s leadership has amplified these benefits, particularly through initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized groups and fostering sustainable practices. Its tenure has exemplified how tourism can act as a catalyst for inclusive development and cultural diplomacy.

Strengthening Global Collaboration

Beyond the MoU with Zambia, His Excellency Al-Khateeb engaged in discussions with tourism ministers from Brazil, South Africa, and Colombia. These dialogues reinforced the importance of multilateral cooperation in advancing the sector. Topics included improving air connectivity, addressing climate challenges, and creating investment opportunities.

Future Prospects for Global Tourism

As Saudi Arabia passes the chairmanship baton, the global tourism community looks forward to building on its progress. With tourism poised to play an increasingly vital role in global economic growth, the next chair faces the challenge of sustaining momentum through innovative policies and international partnerships.

Saudi Arabia’s tenure has laid the groundwork for a future where tourism serves as a unifying force, fostering economic resilience, cultural exchange, and environmental stewardship. The collaborative vision established during its chairmanship will undoubtedly shape the sector’s trajectory in the years to come.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia’s two-year chairmanship of the UN Tourism Executive Council has marked a transformative period for global tourism. From prioritizing sustainability and youth empowerment to fostering international partnerships, its leadership has set a high benchmark for future chairs. As the council enters its next chapter, the global tourism community remains united in its mission to create a thriving and inclusive industry.

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